Dr. Mahrang Baloch, organizer of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), has accused the Pakistani state of using “force and violence” to suppress peaceful political voices in Balochistan.
In a statement posted on X, Dr. Baloch said the BYC organized a peaceful seminar on November 24 in Turbat city to highlight what she described as the “ongoing genocide of the Baloch people.”
She alleged that Turbat police, acting on the directives of law enforcement agencies, filed an “unlawful” First Information Report (FIR) against her and several others.
The FIR reportedly names Dr. Mahrang Baloch, senior advocates from Turbat, 70-year-old Amma Naseema, the family of Balach Moula Bux, Sibgatullah, and other representatives of the BYC.
“This act is a stark reflection of Pakistan’s increasing shift towards authoritarianism, where even peaceful seminars and gatherings are met with suppression,” Dr. Baloch said.
She criticized the state’s policies toward Balochistan, asserting, “The state appears intent on ruling Balochistan through power and violence, attempting to silence all democratic and peaceful political voices.”
Dr. Baloch reaffirmed her commitment to resisting such actions, stating, “Such oppressive tactics will not deter us. We will not remain silent under any circumstances. We will continue to raise our voices for our rights and against the systematic genocide of the Baloch people.”
While the registration of the FIR has been confirmed, local authorities have not commented on the allegations or explained the reasons for targeting seminar participants.
Rights groups, however, have repeatedly raised concerns about restrictions on political activities and freedom of expression in Balochistan, including the alleged misuse of legal processes to pressure activists.